BOSTON — An internal debate is going on within the Red Sox organization, but there is definite sentiment toward promoting Clay Buchholz to make his major-league debut Friday as part of a day-night doubleheader against the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.

Reliever Julian Tavarez is another option, but the Sox appear to be leaning toward Buchholz, who would be scheduled to pitch Friday.

One issue the Sox must overcome is finding a roster spot for Buchholz, but that could be achieved by designating outfielder Wily Mo Pena for assignment. Pena cleared waivers last week, indicating little trade interest from the other 29 teams.

The Sox could designate Pena for assignment, opening a roster spot for Buchholz, then return Buchholz to Pawtucket after the game and replace him on the roster with outfielder Bobby Kielty.

Kielty signed a minor-league deal with the Red Sox last week and his contract features an out in the contract that stipulates that he can declare for free agency if he isn’t promoted to the big leagues by Wednesday. Presumably, the Sox can have Kielty hold on for two additional days.

There’s some concern about having Buchholz make his debut against a first-place team in the middle of a pennant race, but many in the organization believe that’s a smaller risk than having Tavarez (6-8, 5.20 ERA) start.

Gagne remains setup man

Despite the recent struggles of Eric Gagne, manager Terry Francona said yesterday that he intends to continue utilizing the veteran reliever in the same capacity — setup relief in the late innings.

“He’s probably trying to do too much,” said Francona of Gagne. “That’s human nature. But the best thing I can do is not run from him and put him in situations he’s supposed to pitch.”

When it was suggested that Gagne might benefit from pitching in less-stressful situations — with the team behind, or earlier in the game — Francona indicated otherwise.

“I don’t agree with that,” he said. “This is a guy who thrives on adrenaline and close-game situations. We’re going to continue to use him just like we see his role and hope he doesn’t give up runs.

“In a situation like this, I can really make a mistake by doing the easy thing [and staying away from him in close games].”Draft pick signs contract

The Sox came to terms with their second pick in June’s amateur draft, Ryan Dent, a high school shortstop from Long Beach, Calif., whom the Sox selected with their second pick in the supplemental round.

The signing came just two days before the Sox would have lost their rights to Dent — and all other unsigned players — under new draft rules.

Dent agreed to a signing bonus of about $550,000 and will report to the team’s Gulf Coast League affiliate in Fort Myers.

The team is unlikely to sign second-round selection — and their third pick — Hunter Morris, a high school third baseman from Huntsville, Ala., who plans to attend Auburn University. As a result, the Sox will be awarded the 84th pick in next summer’s draft as compensation.

Among their top-10 selections, the only other unsigned pick is sixth-round selection William Middlebrooks from Texas, but indications are that they can get a deal done by tomorrow night’s deadline.

Crisp feeling not so crisp

Coco Crisp was out of the lineup for the second straight day and third time in the last four games, still battling a virus that has left him weak.

Crisp was examined by Dr. Larry Ronan early yesterday afternoon and blood work was performed as a precaution. There was no indication, however, that Crisp’s sickness was anything more serious than a virus.

“We’ll give him another day,” said Francona, “and hope it’s only [temporary]. When you get tired, then you get sick, that’s a bad combination. We’ll run him back out there when he’s available.”

With Crisp sidelined, J.D. Drew started in center with Eric Hinske in right field.

Dustin Pedroia was also out of the starting lineup. Francona wants to give his second baseman a day off to keep him strong for the stretch, and sitting Pedroia also allows Francona to give utilityman Alex Cora a start. Cora had only one start on the recent nine-game road trip, on Aug. 5 in Seattle.

Surgery for Donnelly

Brendan Donnelly is scheduled to undergo Tommy John surgery on his right elbow today in California. The procedure will be performed by Dr. Lewis Yocum.

Warwick native in the pen

Warwick native Dan Wheeler is a member of the Devil Rays’ bullpen, having been acquired from Houston around the non-waiver trading deadline.

Wheeler said he went to 10-12 games at Fenway Park as a kid, still remembering “how awesome” it was walking through the concourse and seeing the Green Monster, but he hasn’t yet pitched here, something he is looking forward to very much.

skrasner@projo.com